MCKERN
FOUNDATION
The McKern Foundation – a registered charity with DGR status – was founded in 2015 and has been contributing to programs that support the health and wellbeing of children and their families ever since.
The McKern family values of “looking after, rewarding and encouraging good people” are at the heart of the foundation’s mission, which also reflects Michael McKern’s belief that investing in today’s youth will help shape a positive future.
Our why
Michael believes that successful businesses are not only measured by profitability, but by what they contribute to the wider community. The foundation currently invests over $200,000 each year into initiatives that bring joy, health, and hope to young ones facing challenging circumstances.
The projects we support create safe and inclusive spaces, promote healthy habits, and support recreational activities for children, providing them with the necessary tools and opportunities for growth. We consider it a privilege to contribute to their wellbeing and participate in their journey toward a brighter future.
We can do more together!
We are grateful to have BlueScope Steel, JL King & Co, Instant Steel Solutions, Furphy Galvanizing, IMPACT-A Fasteners and Construction Supplies Bendigo, Adroit Insurance & Risk, LTS Equipment, Viatek, GAM Steel, Dobeli Electrical, Till Automotive Group and Bendigo Community Health Services as partners in our endeavours, as they share our vision and dedication to empowering youth. However, we would love to have more businesses join us so that we can have an even greater impact!
The projects we support
Fresh Fruit Friday Program
The program, now in its 10th year, delivers a weekly supply of fresh fruit to 35 kindergartens, primary and secondary schools in and around the Bendigo. With over 930kg of fruit delivered weekly to 11,000 students, it is the region’s largest program of its kind.
The program is also supported by our Ambassador, Cassidy McLean from Bendigo Braves, and athletes from Bendigo Strikers Netball Club who visit the schools and educate students on healthy living.
If your business would like to help us to expand this program to even more schools, we would love to hear from you. Get in touch here.
Thanks to our current Fresh Fruit Friday project partners:
The McKern Foundation takes immense pride in being the inaugural sponsor of the kids ward at the Bendigo Hospital. Named the McKern Steel Children’s Ward, our annual sponsorship is a testament to our ongoing dedication to the hospital.
For over 30 years, we have been proud suppliers of the structural steel required to build the Royal Children’s Hospital Charity House. This program aims to raise funds for the Royal Children’s Hospital, ensuring that children in need receive exceptional care and support.
We are honoured to partner with Challenge, a remarkable not-for-profit organisation dedicated to improving the lives of children and families living with cancer. Through our Club 72 program, we support Challenge’s efforts to create lasting memories and offer free-of-charge holiday retreats for families affected by cancer.
We support the future of golf by sponsoring our junior golf club. Our contribution helps cover expenses, providing equipment and opportunities for young golfers to discover and pursue their passion for the game. We thoroughly enjoy nurturing the next generation of golf stars and fostering a lifelong love for this incredible sport.
We are not currently taking on any new projects for the Foundation. However, if you have a project that you think aligns with the McKern Foundation goals and would like to tell us about it, please provide the details below and we will keep it in mind for the future.
Latest McKern Foundation News
Empowering athletes and inspiring communities
Fresh Fruit Fridays get a boost as Bendigo Community Health Services partners with McKern Foundation
